Srinagar, Jul 23: In a significant development, Baramulla-based educator and Fulbright Fellow Rameez Ahmad Sudhan has been selected to present his research paper at the Comparative and International Education Society (CIES) Northeast Regional Conference. The conference is scheduled from November 13 to 15 at Teachers College, Columbia University, New York. The paper was accepted after a competitive peer-review process for the international conference, which will focus on education, migration and displacement. The event is organised by the Comparative and International Education Society (CIES), one of the world's leading academic bodies in the field of education, bringing together researchers, policymakers and practitioners from across the globe. Sudhan is currently serving at the District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), Baramulla, where his work focuses on continuous professional development of teachers, development of educational resources and supporting schools in implementing competency-based learning in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the NIPUN Bharat Mission. According to the organisers, the conference aims to promote interdisciplinary research on migration, displacement and education while providing a platform for emerging scholars. Sudhan's study highlights the educational experiences of communities that remain underrepresented in global academic discourse. Reacting to the development, Sudhan said the acceptance of his paper was an opportunity to present educational experiences from Jammu and Kashmir before an international audience. He described it as recognition of the resilience shown by students, teachers and communities in the region. He also acknowledged the support of his department and colleagues, saying they had provided opportunities for professional growth and learning in line with the vision of NEP 2020. "Education is a powerful instrument for resilience, peace-building and hope. The experiences of children and educators in Jammu and Kashmir deserve greater international attention," he said. The acceptance of the research paper marks a notable international recognition for an educator from Jammu and Kashmir and reflects the region's growing contribution to global educational research.
Srinagar, Jul 22: The Private Schools' Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK) Wednesday clarified that no elections of the association were held under its banner on July 18 at Hotel Palms, saying that claims of an election conducted on that day were "false, misleading and unconstitutional." The clarification came after a meeting of the PSAJK State Executive Committee was held to discussed recent developments concerning individuals claiming to represent the association. In a statement, the committee said reports suggesting that "for the first time elections of PSAJK were conducted" on July 18 were contrary to the association's constitution and hye-laws. The committee further announced the termination of the basic membership of office-bearers who allegedly participated in the July 18 proceedings, accusing them of financial irregularities, embezzlement of association funds and failure to submit audited accounts despite repeated directions. According to PSAJK, the former president had already retired from office and was only serving in an ex-officio capacity until October 12, 2025, without any authority to convene or authorise elections. The association said that, under its Constitution, no Annual General Meeting (AGM), Special General Meeting or election process can be convened without the approval of the President on the recommendation of the State Executive Committee. It said any exercise undertaken outside this framework is "null and void." PSAJK condemned attempts by a "self-styled and illegitimate group" to mislead the school fraternity and the public. The executive committee approved the continuation of legal proceedings and complaints before competent law enforcement agencies for the recovery of association funds and action against former office-bearers accused of financial irregularities. The executive committee of PSAJK also resolved to inform financial institutions and other relevant authorities about the termination of the concerned individuals and the alleged illegitimacy of any group claiming to function on behalf of PSAJK without constitutional authority. Reiterating the legitimacy of the existing leadership, the Committee said the association's recognised elections had already been conducted in accordance with prescribed norms, with the participation of member schools, for a three-year term. It alleged that a few retired and terminated individuals were attempting to undermine the elected body for "ulterior motives." The committee appealed to member schools, stakeholders, government departments and the general public to recognise only those office-bearers functioning in accordance with the PSAJK Constitution and to disregard claims made by any unauthorised persons or groups.
Anantnag, Jul 18: The Private Schools' Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK) Friday organised an educational conclave at Lucent Global School, Batengoo, Anantnag. The event was attended by school leaders, principals, administrators, teachers, and management representatives from across the district. Prof. Parvaiz Mir Director, CIED-IUST Foundation was the Chief Guest at the occasion. In his keynote address, Prof. Mir emphasized the need to foster innovation, leadership, entrepreneurship, and institutional excellence in schools. He highlighted the importance of aligning educational institutions with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and encouraged school leaders to cultivate a culture of creativity, research, and future readiness among students. The conclave was presided over State President, PSAJK Dr Baba Nazrul Islam. In his presidential address, he presented the association's roadmap for strengthening private school education through visionary leadership, organizational unity, quality assurance, and continuous professional development. He urged all stakeholders to work collectively for the advancement of school education and reaffirmed PSAJK's commitment to safeguarding the interests of educational institutions while promoting academic excellence. The green campus initiative of PSAJK will be pledged for the next three years while the segregation of waste will reach to each kitchen. The event commenced with the recitation of the Holy Qur'an, followed by a welcome address by the District President, PSAJK Anantnag Ashfaq Ahmad , who welcomed the distinguished guests and participants. The first technical session was delivered by Prof. Parvaiz Mir on "Empowering School Leadership for Quality Education and Institutional Excellence." The second technical session was conducted by Qadir Ahmad Khan, renowned Life Skill Speaker and Master Trainer, who spoke on "Innovation, Compliance, Collaboration and Future Readiness in School Education." The programme also featured an interactive question-and-answer session, followed by reflections from Er. Zulfqar Sideqi, Vice President (South), PSAJK, on strengthening collaboration among member institutions. Shafiqul Islam, Senior Vice President, PSAJK, addressed the gathering on the importance of organizational unity, emphasizing that a united Association is the key to achieving educational transformation. The conclave concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the General Secretary, PSAJK Anantnag, expressing gratitude to the Chief Guest, resource persons, participants, organizers, and the management of Lucent Global School for hosting the event. PSAJK reiterated its commitment to organizing such capacity-building initiatives across Jammu & Kashmir to empower school leaders, enhance institutional excellence, and contribute meaningfully to the transformation of education in the Union Territory.
Srinagar, Jul 17: President of the Private Schools' Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK) Nazar-ul-Islam Baba Thursday emphasized that schools must evolve beyond conventional learning by nurturing creativity, critical thinking, research aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and entrepreneurial skills among students. In his address during the conclave "RAAH – Strengthening Pathways for Students' Innovations in Schools" as the Special Guest, he presented a roadmap for fostering innovation, incubation, and entrepreneurship across private schools in the Union Territory. He stressed that the future of education lies in creating innovation-driven ecosystems where young minds are encouraged to ideate, experiment, and develop solutions to real-world challenges. Highlighting the need for equitable access to innovation, Dr. Nazar-ul-Islam proposed the establishment of a Mobile Innovation Lab dedicated to students from border and far-flung areas of Jammu & Kashmir. The proposed initiative aims to bridge the innovation and digital divide by bringing hands-on learning in robotics, coding, artificial intelligence, electronics, design thinking, and STEM education directly to underserved schools. He urged Pi Jam Foundation to explore a collaborative partnership with the Private Schools' Association J&K to conceptualize and implement this transformative initiative so that every student, irrespective of geographical location, has access to quality innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities. The conclave was presided over by Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, Registrar, Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST). Distinguished dignitaries present included Prof. G. N. Itoo, Director, Centre for Good Governance and Policy, IUST; Prof. Parvaiz Mir, Director/CEO, CIED-IUST Foundation; Adv. Nadeem Qadiri, Founder Director, Nature School and noted environmentalist; Dr. Arif, Director Academics, JKBOSE; and Shoaib Dar, Director, Pi Jam Foundation J&K, who co-hosted the event along with an eminent panel of experts from industry, academia, and educational institutions. The conclave concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen innovation pathways for school students and build a vibrant culture of research, incubation, and entrepreneurship across Jammu & Kashmir. Various young innovators from Schools and colleges pitched their creative ideas for sead funding and handholding which was hailed all across the board.
Srinagar Jul 16: Vice Chancellor Kashmir University (KU) Prof Nilofer Khan Thursday rejected the perception that distance education was meant only for students unable to secure admission in the regular system, saying that learners enrolled in the centre are equally capable and deserving of quality education. She was speaking during an alumni meeting organised by the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE) of KU During her address, VC KU called for a comprehensive review of academic programmes at the CDOE, saying there was a need to introduce new online courses, revise curricula and align academic offerings with emerging industry and societal needs. The Vice Chancellor said the university must introspect and modernise its programmes in view of rapid changes in technology, research, entrepreneurship and the job market. She said the Centre for Distance and Online Education, formerly the Directorate of Distance Education, has completed 50 years and remains one of the university's flagship academic institutions. Describing it as a "mini-university" within Kashmir University, she said the centre has played a significant role in extending higher education opportunities beyond conventional classrooms through flexible and technology-enabled learning. She called for immediate reforms and said the university should identify subjects that are currently in demand and revise syllabi accordingly to improve employability. She said the focus should not only be on securing jobs but also on promoting entrepreneurship and startups by designing courses that meet the requirements of industry and society. She directed the centre to prepare a roadmap for introducing online programmes, saying such courses have become the need of the hour and are already being offered by universities across the country. She also advocated organising workshops and inviting experts from leading institutions to help strengthen the centre's academic offerings. "Distance education is not meant only for students unable to secure admission in the regular system. Learners enrolled in the centre are equally capable and deserving of quality education," VC KU said. She paid tribute to former faculty members and administrators and said the University's present standing is the result of decades of contributions made by retired teachers and academic leaders. She said the institution would continue building on that legacy with the aim of achieving greater national and global recognition.
Srinagar Jul 16: The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), University of Kashmir (KU), organised a Golden Jubilee Alumni Meet at the Main Campus to commemorate 50 years of the Centre's contribution to distance and online education. The event witnessed participation of alumni, former directors, faculty members, administrators and students to reflect on the Centre's journey over the past five decades and discuss its evolving role in expanding access to higher education. The programme also provided an opportunity for alumni to reconnect with their alma mater and share their experiences of learning through the Centre. Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, said that the Centre has played an important role in making higher education accessible to learners from diverse social and geographical backgrounds. "For five decades, the Centre has created opportunities for thousands of learners who aspired to pursue higher education despite various constraints. As higher education continues to evolve, CDOE has an important role in advancing inclusive, flexible and technology-enabled learning," she said. Dean Research KU, Prof. Bashir Ahmad Ganaie, said the Centre's sustained contribution to academic outreach reflects the University's commitment to widening educational opportunities. Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, and Controller of Examinations, Prof. Majid Zaman, highlighted the Centre's steady growth over the years and acknowledged its contribution to the University's academic ecosystem. Dean, School of Open Learning KU, Prof. Mushtaq Ahmad Dar, and Director, Admissions & Competitive Examinations KU, Prof. Fayaz Ahmad, also shared their reflections on the Centre's journey and appreciated its role in extending educational opportunities to learners across the region. Earlier, in his welcome address, Director, CDOE, Prof. Altaf Ahangar, traced the evolution of the Centre and highlighted key milestones in its fifty-year journey. He spoke about the Centre's transition from conventional distance education to online and blended learning models, while acknowledging the contributions of former administrators, faculty members and staff in shaping its growth. A highlight of the programme was the felicitation of former Directors and faculty members of CDOE in recognition of their significant contributions to the development and expansion of the Centre over the past five decades. An interactive session with alumni was held during which participants shared their academic and professional experiences, recalled their association with the Centre and offered suggestions for strengthening alumni engagement and further enhancing the quality of distance and online education. The proceedings of the programme were conducted by Dr. Zubair Ahmad Dada, faculty member at CDOE KU.
Srinagar, Jul 10: The Executive Committee Meeting of the Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Council (JKHEC) was held at the University of Kashmir, on Thursday, bringing together eminent academicians, policymakers and heads of higher educational institutions from J&K to deliberate on transformative initiatives aimed at strengthening the higher education ecosystem of Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was chaired by Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice-Chairman, J&K Higher Education Council, who emphasised the need for promoting innovation-driven, interdisciplinary and learner-centric approaches in higher education institutions in accordance with the vision and spirit of the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020. Addressing the members, Prof. Singh underlined the importance of reimagining higher education through creativity, flexibility, experiential learning and problem-solving. He stressed on taking forward the Design Your Degree (DYD) programme as an innovative academic initiative aimed at enabling students to explore multidisciplinary learning pathways and develop skills suited to contemporary challenges. Prof. Singh said universities and colleges must evolve as dynamic centres of ideas, innovation and research where students are encouraged to think independently, undertake meaningful projects and engage with real-world challenges. He also highlighted the significance of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into academics, teaching-learning processes and research, enabling institutions to remain responsive to emerging global developments. Earlier, Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice-Chancellor, University of Kashmir, in her remarks highlighted the University’s commitment towards advancing academic excellence, research, innovation and student-centric reforms. Prof. Khan said the University of Kashmir remains committed to achieving the objectives envisioned under NEP-2020 by strengthening collaboration among universities, colleges and government institutions. She said the J&K Higher Education Council has created an important platform for collective thinking and developing a shared roadmap for transforming higher education across Jammu and Kashmir. The Committee reviewed the progress achieved on decisions taken during previous meetings of the Higher Education Council and held detailed deliberations on strengthening the implementation of the Design Your Degree initiative, promoting undergraduate research, entrepreneurship and innovation-led education. Prof. Shobha Bagai, Director, Cluster Innovation Centre, University of Delhi, shared her insights on multidisciplinary education, innovation ecosystems and experiential learning models. She emphasised the need to encourage creativity, research aptitude and entrepreneurial thinking among students from the undergraduate level and highlighted the importance of designing academic frameworks that connect classroom learning with practical problem-solving. The Executive Committee also discussed the integration of Artificial Intelligence in teaching, learning and research programmes across higher educational institutions. Members deliberated upon strategies to leverage AI for enhancing academic practices, improving research outcomes and preparing students for future opportunities. The meeting also reviewed initiatives related to entrepreneurship and innovation, proposed programmes under the Higher Education Council framework, and discussed budgetary provisions and other academic matters. The meeting was attended by Shri Ram Niwas Sharma (IAS), Principal Secretary to Government, Higher Education Department, J&K; Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu; Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor, Islamic University of Science and Technology; Prof. Mohammad Mobin, Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University Srinagar; Prof. K. S. Chandrasekar, Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu; Prof. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director Colleges, J&K; Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz, Nodal Principal, Government College of Education (IASE); Dr. Naveen Anand, Principal, Government College for Women, Parade Ground Jammu; and Dr. Guneet Singh Sudan, OSD to Vice-Chairman, J&K Higher Education Council, among others. Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), and Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu, joined the meeting through online mode and participated in the deliberations.
Banihal, Jul 6: The Chief Education Officer (CEO) Ramban on Monday placed the whole staff of Government Middle School (GMS), Krawah in Zone Banihal, under suspension after a student was reportedly found locked inside the classroom for several hours. In wake of this, the authorities also ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident. According to an official order issued by the CEO Ramban, the incident occurred on July 4, 2026, when a student was reportedly found locked inside the school building at around 8:00 pm, after school hours and before the commencement of the summer vacation. The order reads that it was a case of prima facie gross negligence and dereliction of duty on the part of the officials responsible for the safety and supervision of students. "Such negligence has the potential to endanger the life and safety of the child," it reads. Pending the outcome of the inquiry, all employees of Government Middle School, Krawah, Zone Banihal, have been placed under suspension with immediate effect under Rule 31 of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1956. During the suspension period. During the suspension period, the employees will remain attached to the same school until further orders. The CEO has also constituted a three-member inquiry committee comprising , Principal, HSS Girls Banihal (Chairperson) , Zonal Education Officer, Banihal and Headmaster, High School Bankoot. The committee has been directed to conduct a thorough and impartial inquiry into the circumstances leading to the incident, fix responsibility for the lapse, and submit a detailed report along with its recommendations to the CEO's office within three days. The action has been taken to ensure accountability and reinforce student safety in educational institutions across the district.
Srinagar, Jul 5: The University of Kashmir Sunday organised a flag-off ceremony for its National Youth Parliament Team, which is proceeding to New Delhi to receive the prestigious National Championship Award in the 17th National Youth Parliament Competition (2025–26) at Parliament House, the highest democratic institution of the country. The University contingent, comprising 50 students, is led by Dr. Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer and Coordinator, National Youth Parliament, who has mentored and guided the championship-winning team throughout the competition. In her message, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nilofer Khan said "The triumph of our students in the National Youth Parliament Competition is a celebration of knowledge, leadership and democratic values. Their recognition at the Parliament of India, the temple of our democracy, is not merely an award but a powerful affirmation that the youth of Kashmir possess the vision, intellect and confidence to contribute to the nation's future. This historic achievement will inspire generations of students to dream bigger, think deeper and lead with integrity. On behalf of the entire University fraternity, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and wish the team continued success as proud ambassadors of the University of Kashmir." Registrar, Prof. Naseer Iqbal: said "This remarkable accomplishment reflects the culture of excellence, discipline and perseverance that defines the University of Kashmir. Our students have demonstrated that with dedication and commitment, no goal is beyond reach. Being honoured at the Parliament of India is a rare distinction and a proud milestone in the University's journey. I congratulate every member of the team and appreciate the tireless efforts of the mentor whose guidance transformed talent into national excellence. May this achievement ignite greater aspirations among our youth to serve society and strengthen the democratic fabric of our nation." The flag-off ceremony was conducted by Prof. Majid Zaman, Controller of Examinations, in the presence of Prof. Pervez Ahmad, Dean, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, and Prof. Seema Singh, Dean Students' Welfare. Prof. Imtiyaz Ahmed, Chief Proctor, Faculty members, university officials, students, and parents of the winning students gathered to extend their best wishes to the team for this momentous national recognition. Addressing the gathering, Prof. Majid Zaman congratulated the students on their remarkable achievement and said: "This accomplishment is a matter of immense pride for the University of Kashmir and the entire Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Being honoured at Parliament House reflects the dedication, discipline and intellectual excellence of our students. I wish the team every success and hope they continue to inspire future generations." Prof. Seema Singh, Dean Students' Welfare, described the occasion as a historic milestone for the University. She said: "Our students have demonstrated exceptional talent, confidence, and democratic values through their outstanding performance. Their national recognition is a testament to the University's commitment to nurturing leadership, responsible citizenship, and holistic development. We are immensely proud of their achievement." Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Pervez Ahmad, Dean School of Earth and Environmental Sciences said: "The Youth Parliament platform equips students with a deep understanding of democratic institutions, constitutional values and public policy. This national honour showcases the academic excellence and leadership potential of our students, and I congratulate every member of the team for bringing laurels to the University." Dr. Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer and Coordinator, National Youth Parliament, expressed gratitude to the University administration for its unwavering support and said: "This achievement is the result of months of rigorous preparation, teamwork and commitment displayed by our students. Receiving the National Championship Award at Parliament House is a rare honour and a defining moment in the University's history. We dedicate this success to the University of Kashmir and remain committed to inspiring more students to participate in nation-building through democratic engagement." The University community expressed confidence that the team would represent the institution with dignity and distinction while receiving the National Championship Award at Parliament House, New Delhi, bringing further glory to the University of Kashmir.
Leh, Jul 4: A transformative two-day career seminar, aimed at guiding students from the Union Territory of Ladakh towards premier institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the National Defence Academy (NDA), concluded on Friday. The event, held across two separate towns in Leh and Kargil, drew a large and enthusiastic turnout of students from across the UT. Organised by the Career Defence School, the seminar was spearheaded by founder and CEO Er. Vinay Rai, alongside Administrative Officer Er. Gagan Wadhwa. The programme was coordinated by Khan Jahangeer, Amir Suhail ensuring the sessions resonated with the unique aspirations of Ladakh’s youth. The Leh segment of the seminar was graced by ADC to Lieutenant Governor, Shiekh Adil, alongside the District Planning Officer, DIET Principal S.D. Namgail, and Anchay Yagdol HOD DIET. In Kargil, the event saw the participation of President of the Private Schools Association, Murtaza Khaleli, and In-charge Chief Education Officer, Dr. Sarwar.Shahzad (KAS) who attended as esteemed guests. Addressing the students in Leh, Shiekh Adil delivered an inspiring address saying that failures are not the end of the career. "After every hardship, there is success. If hardships become your excuse, the first casualty will be your goal," he said. He emphasized the growing importance of competitive education and advised students to build confidence, improve communication skills, and remain consistent in their efforts. DIET Principal S.D. Namgail lauded the initiative, calling it a “meaningful program” that would equip students with the necessary awareness to compete on national platforms and seize career opportunities they might not have otherwise considered. In Kargil, Murtaza Khaleli stressed the need for dedication, hard work, and moral values in student life. He highlighted the importance of education, discipline, and critical thinking, urging students to channel their energy toward constructive goals and stay away from negativity. Talking to the media, Er. Vinay Rai expressed his confidence in the potential of Ladakhi students. “Students from Leh and Kargil possess immense talent. They only require proper guidance, discipline, and exposure to shine on the national stage,” he said. “Career Defence School is fully committed to preparing students for competitive exams like JEE Mains, NEET, RIMC, and NDA, while simultaneously focusing on personality development, leadership, and nation-building.” The seminar featured detailed question-and-answer sessions in both locations, during which students actively raised queries regarding NDA eligibility, IIT entrance preparation, hostel facilities, scholarships, physical fitness requirements, and the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence in modern career paths. The career awareness sessions were conducted in close collaboration with the Education Department of the Union Territory, underscoring a collective effort to empower the youth of Ladakh.
Srinagar, June 28: The School Education Department (SED) has released the Draft Transfer Policy-2026 and initiated the process for rolling out the Annual Transfer Drive (ATD)-2026, paving the way for a comprehensive, online and merit-based transfer exercise for its teaching fraternity across Jammu and Kashmir. The draft policy, placed in the public domain for 15 days, invites comments, suggestions and objections from stakeholders before its formal notification. It marks the department's third structured transfer exercise after similar drives conducted in 2023 and 2024. The draft has been uploaded on the official websites of the School Education Department to ensure transparency and wider public participation in finalising the policy. According to the draft, the proposed policy aims to establish a transparent, fair and accountable framework for transfers and postings of teachers, masters, lecturers, headmasters, principals, Zonal Education Officers (ZEOs), Chief Education Officers (CEOs) and equivalent officers across the Union Territory. "The proposed policy seeks to ensure equitable deployment of staff, particularly in remote and underserved areas, while maintaining uninterrupted academic functioning and keeping students' interests at the centre of the transfer process," the draft reads. Transfers will ordinarily be processed through a dedicated Online Transfer Portal, with the Annual Transfer Drive scheduled to be completed before the commencement of every academic session. However, the policy also allows offline transfers in exceptional administrative circumstances with the approval of the competent authority. The draft introduces a revised zonal tenure system by categorising schools into five zones based on accessibility. Employees posted in Zones I, II and III will ordinarily serve three years in a school, while those serving in the more difficult Zones IV and V will have tenures of two years and one year, respectively. Employees completing their tenure in inaccessible Zone-V areas will be given preference for postings in comparatively accessible locations. To address disparities in staff distribution, the policy proposes rationalisation and redeployment of surplus teachers based on pupil-teacher ratio, student enrolment, subject requirements and institutional needs. It, however, stipulates that no rationalisation exercise should leave any institution without adequate teaching staff or adversely affect classroom instruction. The draft identifies five categories of transfers—general, mutual, administrative, compassionate and special rotational transfers. Compassionate transfers may be considered in cases involving severe medical conditions, benchmark disabilities, widowhood, safety concerns and other humanitarian grounds, subject to documentary verification. The policy also proposes special provisions for government-employed spouses, women employees, single parents, widows, divorcees, employees nearing retirement and persons with benchmark disabilities. Employees aged 58 years and above would ordinarily not be posted to the most difficult Zones IV and V. The draft also provides for inter-cadre transfers under specified circumstances, including marriage and exceptional medical or security grounds. A key feature of the proposed policy is the introduction of a Transfer Assessment Matrix (TAM)—an online point-based merit system that allocates weightage for service in difficult areas, age, disability, spouse posting, outstanding academic performance, national and UT-level teacher awards, serious illness, proximity to retirement and caregiving responsibilities to objectively determine transfer priority. The draft also lays down an indicative annual transfer calendar. Vacancies will be published in April, applications invited in May, merit lists and representations processed in June, and transfer orders issued during June and July. To address transfer-related disputes, the policy proposes a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism at the institutional, district and Union Territory levels, with representations to be ordinarily disposed of within 15 days. However, the proposed policy will not apply to Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) and Regularised Rehbar-e-Taleem (RReT) teachers, whose appointments remain school-specific unless separate government orders are issued. An official said the ATD has been revived following the successful implementation of similar exercises in 2023 and 2024, with the objective of making teacher transfers more transparent, equitable and technology-driven while strengthening accountability and improving human resource management in SED.
Srinagar, June 25: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar has added another feather to its cap as two of its distinguished faculty members were honoured at the prestigious IEI J&K Women in Engineering Awards 2026, organized by The Institution of Engineers (India), J&K State Centre, in recognition of their exceptional contributions to engineering, research, innovation, mentorship, administration, and academic excellence. The awards were presented during the celebration of International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2026, marked by a one-day seminar on the theme “Engineering Intelligence” at the IEI Srinagar Centre. Among the awardees from NIT Srinagar, Dr. Fatima Jalid, MIE, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, was conferred with the Gold Award Certificate, securing First Rank under the Emerging Woman Engineer Award category. She was recognized for her outstanding achievements and significant contributions to the field of engineering. Her dedication to academic excellence, impactful research, innovation, student mentorship, and institutional administration has earned her wide recognition and brought immense pride to the Institute. In the same category, Dr. Janani L., MIE, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, secured Second Rank and received the Silver Award Certificate. The honour was conferred in recognition of her commendable contributions to engineering education, research, and professional development in civil engineering. Dr. Janani has consistently contributed to academic growth, research initiatives, and student mentorship, inspiring young engineers to pursue excellence and innovation. The Silver Award was received on her behalf by her parents, M. Lekshmipathy and S. Santhi, who accepted the honour with pride.
Srinagar, June 22: National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar Monday organised a seminar titled “The Power Sector in India: Addressing Emerging Challenges in the Power Sector, Sustainable Energy Development, Loss Minimization, Workforce Adequacy with Special Reference to the J&K System. The event was organised by Dean Alumni and International Affairs under the Alumni Back to Classroom (ABC) initiative and was held at Hi-Tech 5 which brought together alumni, faculty members, engineers, and students for an in-depth discussion on India’s evolving power sector and the specific challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir. The event was presided over by Mrs. Rao, Former Professor of Delhi University, and coordinated by Dr. H. S. Pali (Civil Eng, NIT Srinagar.) The first technical session was delivered by Er. K. Ashok Rao, an alumnus from the early batches of NIT Srinagar. Recalling the Institution’s early years in the 1960s, Er Rao highlighted the challenges students faced due to limited laboratory infrastructure, forcing them to travel to other institutions such as Thapar University for practical training. He traced the evolution of India’s power sector from conventional fossil-fuel-based steam generation to modern and diversified energy systems. Er Rao also discussed the limitations of early solar-thermal technologies and stressed the importance of achieving energy self-sufficiency in India. The second technical session was presented by Er. Peerzada Hidayatullah, Assistant Engineer, JKPDD, and Vice Chairman of AIPEF, who focused on the power sector challenges in Jammu and Kashmir. He outlined the historical growth of the J&K Power Development Department and highlighted major achievements in electricity infrastructure expansion from 1988 to 2026, including the electrification of far-flung areas such as Ladakh and Kargil. Er Hidayatullah said that Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses in Jammu and Kashmir have reduced substantially from nearly 75–80 percent in 1988 to around 30–35 percent in 2026. He also spoke about expanding transformer capacity, increasing solar power integration, and sustaining engineering efforts to curb power theft. Earlier, Dean AIA, Prof. M. A. Shah said that energy demand in the coming decade is expected to rise significantly, making discussions on sustainable energy and power-sector reforms highly relevant for students, engineers, and policymakers alike. He emphasized the importance of strengthening alumni engagement with the institute, stating that initiatives like ABC help reconnect former students with their alma mater and create opportunities for mentorship, professional guidance, and career growth for current students, especially those from modest backgrounds. In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, said that the power sector is undergoing a transformational phase driven by technological advancements, renewable energy integration and rising energy demand. He said academic institutions like NIT Srinagar have a crucial role in preparing future engineers to address challenges related to sustainability, grid resilience, and energy efficiency. Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman emphasized the importance of industry-academia collaboration in addressing real-world challenges in critical sectors such as power and energy. He lauded the efforts of the Dean Alumni and International Affairs office for organizing impactful academic interactions under the ABC initiative. A documentary on the first Electrical Power Station of Mohra was also screened during the event. On behalf of the Alumni Association, Er. Farhan Manzoor felicitated dozens of Electrical Engineers, including Gold Medalist Er. Hurayasrab (AEE). During the programme, Mr Anand Prakash (Physics)- shared his inspiring journey from Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, to NIT Srinagar, highlighting how education transformed his life and enabled upward social mobility. The guest speakers, including Er. K. Ashok Rao, Er. Peerzada Hidayatullah and other engineers from JKPDD were felicitated by Prof. M. A. Shah for their valuable contributions. The event was efficiently hosted and coordinated by Aswa Shah, Master’s Intern, who conducted the proceedings and presented a formal vote of thanks to dignitaries. Students from Crescent Public School, G.D. Goenka, Green Valley, and Kashmir Harvard also attended the seminar.
Baramulla, June 21: Aarifeen School of Excellence (ASE), Baramulla, has achieved a historic milestone by emerging as the top-performing school in Kashmir in the prestigious 26th Annual All J&K UT Level Talent Search Test 2025 conducted by Newlight Education & Environmental Service Foundation (NEESF-NEES). In a remarkable achievement, ten students from ASE secured top positions at the Union Territory level, with two students emerging as UT toppers in their respective grades. The outstanding performance has established Aarifeen School of Excellence as the first school from North Kashmir to achieve this distinction in the highly competitive NEESF-NEES examination. Leading the honours was Anabia Nawaz of Grade 1, who secured the first position across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, earning the prestigious Gold Medal among participants from 644 schools. She was felicitated by Education Minister Sakina Itoo at SKICC Srinagar. Adding to the school's glory, Sheikh Fatima Zubair of Grade 1 secured 7th position in the Union Territory. In Grade 2, Noor ul Haq secured 7th position, Ummarah Bint Hilal secured 11th position, and Ahmad Yehya secured 17th position across the Union Territory. In Grade 3, Mohd Aman Khan secured 13th position, Mohammad Uzair Malik secured 14th position, and Mohd Ahmad secured 16th position across the Union Territory. In Grade 4, Mohd Ayaan Lone secured 1st position and emerged as the UT topper, while in Grade 5, Afhaam Hussain secured 13th position across the Union Territory. Congratulating the students, parents and teachers, Dr. Hanan Khalid Khan, Principal, Aarifeen School of Excellence, said the achievement reflects the school's commitment to nurturing talent through innovative and activity-based learning. "Our students have not only excelled at the UT level but have also emerged as the highest-performing learners in Kashmir. This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication of our teachers, the support of parents, and the effectiveness of our child-centric curriculum. We are proud that ASE has become the first school from North Kashmir to top the NEESF-NEES examination and produce UT-level gold medalists," he said. Aafreen Farooq, Curriculum Head, said the results reflect the strength of ASE's inquiry-based and experiential learning model. "When learning is meaningful and engaging, excellence follows naturally. Our students' success demonstrates that conceptual understanding and critical thinking are far more powerful than rote memorisation," she said. School Coordinator Asma Sadiq said the achievement highlights the effectiveness of the school's activity-based curriculum. "Our learners excelled without any special coaching because the classroom itself prepares them for competitive challenges. This is the true strength of quality education," she said. Parents also expressed immense pride in the achievement. Mother of Anabia Nawaz, the UT topper, said: "This achievement is a proud moment for our family. We are grateful to ASE for nurturing curiosity, confidence and independent thinking in our child. The school's holistic approach to learning has played a pivotal role in her success." Parents of Mohammad Amaan Khan said: "What makes this achievement special is that it came without any extra coaching. ASE's classroom learning alone empowered our child to compete and excel at the UT level." The achievement adds to ASE's growing list of accomplishments. Earlier this year, the school secured 165 Gold Medals in the International Olympiad 2025, including multiple national-level distinctions. The ASE fraternity expressed gratitude to students, parents and educators whose collective efforts have helped the institution emerge as a centre of excellence in both academic and non-academic domains.
Srinagar, June 18: In a significant achievement for Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Misba Rehman, a PhD scholar in the Faculty of Fisheries, has secured an international research grant of US$6,500 from the US-based Wild Animal Initiative. The grant will support the project, “Assessing Behavioural and Physiological Welfare Indicators for the Kashmir Loach (Triplophysa kashmirensis),” led by Dr Syed Talia Mushtaq as Principal Investigator, with Misba Rehman as lead applicant. The study focuses on generating scientific evidence on the welfare indicators of the critically endangered Kashmir Loach, an endemic fish species of Kashmir, to support science-based conservation and management strategies. Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai congratulated Misba Rehman and Dr Syed Talia Mushtaq, stating that the achievement reflects the growing global recognition of research at SKUAST-K and strengthens the university’s commitment to impactful research and biodiversity conservation. Dean, Faculty of Fisheries, Prof. Farooz Ahmad Bhat, described the grant as a major accomplishment, noting that the project addresses an important yet understudied area of fish welfare and conservation. Echoing these views, Head Division of Fisheries Resource Management, Dr Tasaduq Hussain Shah, said that the international funding reflects the scientific merit and growing relevance of the research being undertaken by the Division. Additionally, Dr Syed Talia Mushtaq emphasized that the project will generate critical baseline data to support the conservation of threatened Himalayan freshwater species. Expressing gratitude, Misba Rehman acknowledged the support of the university and her supervisor, stating that the grant will enable innovative research to better understand the conservation and welfare needs of the Kashmir Loach. The award further underscores SKUAST-K’s growing international recognition in biodiversity conservation and sustainable aquatic resource research.
Srinagar, June 15: A series of national scholarship programmes offering financial assistance ranging from ₹20,000 to full tuition fee coverage have opened applications for students pursuing higher education in engineering, management, technology and other professional courses across the country. Among the major schemes, the Bharti Airtel Scholarship 2026-27 will provide 100 per cent annual course fee coverage, hostel and mess charges, and laptops to selected students enrolled in top engineering institutions. The scholarship is open to first-year students admitted to undergraduate and integrated programmes in technology-related fields, including artificial intelligence, robotics, data science and aerospace, with family income not exceeding ₹8 lakh annually. The IDFC FIRST Bank MBA Scholarship Program 2026-28 will provide financial support of ₹2 lakh to eligible first-year MBA students from families with annual incomes of up to ₹6 lakh. The assistance will be disbursed over two years to help students pursue management education without financial constraints. For students aspiring to pursue emerging technology courses, the uGSOT Scholarship Program 2026 by upGrad School of Technology offers merit-based and need-based scholarships, including fee waivers of up to 100 per cent. The programme targets Class 12 science students seeking admission in Computer Science specialisations such as Generative AI and Machine Learning, Quantum Computing and Full Stack Development. Another major initiative, the Eastman Powerup Eduskill Scholarship Program 2026-27, has invited applications from engineering, management and diploma students. The programme offers financial assistance of up to ₹20,000 linked to the successful completion of industry-relevant certification courses. Preference will be given to female students, persons with disabilities, students from single-parent households and those belonging to Tier-II and Tier-III cities. The scholarship list also includes the Masters’ Union Scholarship Aptitude Test 2026, which offers tuition fee waivers ranging from 10 to 80 per cent for students pursuing undergraduate programmes in business management, technology, data science, artificial intelligence, sustainability and related disciplines. In addition, the WINGS – Women Inspiring Growth in STEM Scholarship Program has been launched for female undergraduate students at IIT Bombay pursuing STEM disciplines. The programme provides full tuition fee support and seeks to encourage greater participation of women in science and technology education. The document also mentions the vivo Punjab Vidya Setu Scholarship Program 2026, which offers scholarships of ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 to economically weaker undergraduate students studying in government and government-aided colleges in Punjab and Chandigarh. Most of the scholarship schemes are being administered through online application portals, with deadlines falling between June and July 2026. The programmes are aimed at reducing financial barriers to higher education and promoting access to professional and technical courses for students from economically weaker sections. Education experts said such initiatives could significantly enhance access to quality higher education, particularly for students from low-income families, while encouraging enrolment in emerging technology and management disciplines.
Srinagar June 05: The Department of English University of Kashmir (KU), commenced a two-day international conference on “Climate Action, Sustainability and Literature: The Ecosophical Proximity in the Contemporary Anthropocentric Epoch” in collaboration with the Ecosophical Foundation for the Study of Literature and Environment at the Main Campus. The conference aims to examine the intersections of literature, environmental thought and sustainability, while promoting interdisciplinary dialogue on climate change, ecological responsibility and the role of the humanities in addressing contemporary environmental challenges. Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, highlighted the importance of academic engagement with pressing ecological concerns. “Climate change is no longer a distant possibility but a lived reality. Universities have a responsibility to encourage critical reflection and generate knowledge that contributes to environmental awareness, sustainable practices and informed public discourse,” she said. She added that literature and the humanities offer valuable perspectives for understanding the human dimensions of environmental crises and can play a meaningful role in shaping ecological consciousness. Vice-Chancellor, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, in his address, highlighted the need for integrating scientific understanding with policy interventions and governance frameworks to address the challenges posed by climate change. He emphasized that sustainable development requires coordinated efforts involving academia, policymakers, communities and institutions working towards long-term environmental resilience. Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, emphasized the significance of interdisciplinary research and academic collaborations in advancing discussions on sustainability and environmental stewardship. President, EFSLE, Dr. Rishikesh Kumar, spoke about the growing relevance of ecosophical approaches in literary and cultural studies. Earlier, in his welcome address, Head, Department of English KU, Prof. Mufti Mudasir Farooqi, outlined the objectives of the conference and said the event seeks to create a platform for scholars, researchers and practitioners to deliberate on contemporary ecological issues through literary, cultural and interdisciplinary perspectives. The two-day conference includes a keynote lecture by Prof. Diana J. Fox, Department of Anthropology, Bridgewater State University USA, plenary talks, technical sessions and paper presentations by scholars and researchers from India and abroad, focusing on climate action, sustainability, environmental humanities, ecocriticism and related themes. The proceedings of the inaugural session were conducted by Prof. Iffat Maqbool, faculty, Department of English KU.
Srinagar, June 4: The Directorate of Information Technology & Support Systems (IT&SS), University of Kashmir, in collaboration with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), organized a One-Day Awareness Programme on Digital Signature and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) at the University of Kashmir. The programme witnessed participation from officers of the Jammu & Kashmir Police, CID, NIELIT, SKUAST, Industry experts, Faculty members, Students, Research scholars, and officials of the University of Kashmir, reflecting the growing importance of secure digital practices across sectors. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Maroof Qadri, Director IT&SS, highlighted the critical role of Digital Signatures and Public Key Infrastructure in strengthening digital governance, cybersecurity, and trusted electronic transactions. Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, Dean Academic Affairs, University of Kashmir, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, emphasized the need for awareness and capacity building in cybersecurity and secure digital technologies. The technical sessions were conducted by Dr. Mohammed Misbahuddin, Scientist-F, C-DAC Bengaluru; Dr. Balaji Rajendran, Associate Director, C-DAC Bengaluru; and Mr. Shamsuddin Khan, Assistant Controller (Technology), Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), MeitY, Government of India. The experts deliberated on Digital Signatures, Public Key Infrastructure, electronic authentication, digital trust, and secure digital communications. The programme provided a valuable platform for participants to enhance their understanding of technologies that form the foundation of trust, security, and authenticity in the digital ecosystem.
Srinagar June 02: A first-of-its-kind three-day Advanced School of Antenna (ASA) 2026 concluded at the University of Kashmir (KU). The programme was organised by KU in collaboration with the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, IEEE AP-S/CRFID Delhi Chapter and IEEE AP-S/MTT-S, Kolkata Chapter, on the theme “Antennas in Biomedical and Biotelemetry Devices.” The three-day programme aimed to promote knowledge exchange and advance research at the intersection of antenna engineering and healthcare technologies by bringing together leading experts, researchers, faculty members and students from across the country. Speaking at the valedictory session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, congratulated the organisers for bringing the prestigious international programme to the University and highlighted the growing importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing contemporary healthcare and technological challenges. "ASA 2026 provided an excellent platform for researchers, faculty members and students to engage with leading experts and emerging innovations in antenna technologies and biomedical applications," she said. Dean, School of Engineering KU, Prof. Mohammad Tariq Banday, and Incharge Director, NIT Srinagar, Prof. Roohie Naaz, emphasized the importance of collaborative research and academic partnerships in advancing emerging technologies and fostering innovation-driven learning. Head, Department of Electronics & Instrumentation Technology, KU, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Khanday, said that the event created valuable opportunities for participants to interact with internationally renowned experts and gain insights into contemporary developments in antenna design and biomedical applications. Prof. Omar Ramahi, University of Waterloo, Canada, and Prof. Mahesh Abegaonkar, IIT Delhi and Chairman, IEEE AP-S Delhi Chapter, spoke on the recent advances in antenna technologies and stressed on the need for sustained research efforts to address emerging challenges in biomedical and wireless communication systems. Earlier, in his welcome address, Organising Secretary Dr. Javaid Ahmad Sheikh, faculty at the Department of Electronics & Instrumentation Technology, KU, outlined the objectives of the programme and highlighted its focus on bridging fundamental research with real-world healthcare applications. The three-day programme featured keynote lectures, technical sessions and expert discussions on various dimensions of antenna engineering, biomedical devices, biotelemetry systems and emerging wireless technologies. The proceedings of the valedictory session were conducted by Organising Secretary Dr. Javaid Ahmad Sheikh. Earlier the inaugural session, held at the Ibn-e-Khaldun Auditorium, was attended by Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada; Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal; Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar; Prof. Omar Ramahi, University of Waterloo, Canada; Prof. Mahesh Abegaonkar, Chairman, IEEE AP-S Delhi Chapter; Dean, School of Engineering KU, Prof. Mohammad Tariq Banday; besides heads of departments, faculty members, researchers and students from KU and NIT Srinagar.
Srinagar, June 1: Doon School Srinagar has been honoured with the prestigious Best School Award at the Zee Media Conclave, held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), Srinagar. The award was presented by the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, in recognition of the school's outstanding performance and excellence across various educational parameters. The award was received by Chairman Showkat Khan, Vice Chairman Sayan Khan, and Principal A. Kamili on behalf of the institution. Doon School Srinagar was rated among the top educational institutions for its academic excellence, co-curricular achievements, infrastructure, and overall contribution to quality education in the Valley. Over the past few years, the school has hosted several distinguished personalities, including former Sri Lankan cricket captain Sanath Jayasuriya, renowned Australian cricket coach and legend Dav Whatmore, and Bollywood actor Shakti Kapoor. These visits have provided valuable exposure and inspiration to students. The school's students have also actively participated in debates, sports competitions, and various extracurricular activities at regional and national levels, bringing laurels to the institution. Widely regarded as a reputed and credible educational institution, Doon School Srinagar has established itself as a centre of academic excellence. The management also said that the school currently has no branch elsewhere in Jammu and Kashmir. Parents, students, educationists, and residents of Srinagar have congratulated Chairman Showkat Khan and the entire Doon School fraternity for this remarkable achievement and their significant contribution to the field of education.
Gulmarg, May 31: The third edition of the global alumni reunion, SANGAM-3.0, concluded at Gulmarg on Sunday with a special networking and interaction session, bringing to a close three days of celebrations, discussions and renewed engagement between alumni and their alma mater. The event was organised by the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar in collaboration with the Alumni Association, REC/NIT Srinagar. The concluding session at the Golf Club Gulmarg witnessed enthusiastic participation from distinguished alumni, faculty members, administrators, and guests from across the country. The event was hosted by alumnus and MLA Gulmarg Er Farooq Ahmad Shah, who welcomed the alumni fraternity and appreciated NIT Srinagar's efforts to reconnect generations of graduates through a vibrant alumni platform. Among those present were Babu Lal Juneja, Chairman, SKD University Rajasthan; Ashwani Kumar, Rajasthan; Social activist Tasneem Akhter; Nouman Ajaz Wawa, Director, TRM Institute; Er. Ambreena Anjum, Superintendent Engineer, Jal Shakti Department, CEO Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) Tariq Hussain Naik (JKAS), and G.N. Var founding President, Private Schools Association J&K. Addressing the gathering, MLA Gulmarg, Farooq Ahmad Shah described NIT Srinagar as one of Northern India's premier technical institutions that has produced generations of engineers, scientists, administrators, entrepreneurs and innovators who have made significant contributions to nation-building. Calling SANGAM-3.0 more than an alumni reunion, MLA Shah said it was a celebration of shared experiences, lifelong friendships and collective commitment towards institutional growth. "The values and relationships built during our days at REC Srinagar played a defining role in shaping our professional journeys," he said. He urged alumni to deepen their engagement with the institute through mentorship programmes, scholarships, research collaborations, industry partnerships and career opportunities for students. MLA Gulmarg also encouraged successful alumni and entrepreneurs to invest in higher education, skill development, and innovation initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir to generate employment and strengthen the region's human resource base. In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, said the successful conclusion of SANGAM-3.0 reflected the strength of the institute's global alumni network. "Our alumni are our greatest ambassadors. The overwhelming response witnessed during the last three days demonstrates the enduring bond that graduates continue to share with the institute. Their mentorship, expertise and support remain invaluable for the growth of NIT Srinagar," he said. Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman described SANGAM-3.0 as a landmark initiative aimed at building a sustainable and active alumni ecosystem. "The reunion provided an excellent platform for alumni from different generations to reconnect, exchange ideas and contribute to the institute's future growth. We witnessed meaningful interactions, academic discussions and several collaborative proposals during the programme," he said. President of the Alumni Association REC/NIT Srinagar, Er. Malay Chatterjee said the event had further strengthened ties between alumni and the institute. "The alumni community remains committed to supporting the institute through student mentoring, industry linkages, innovation support and creating opportunities for young graduates. SANGAM-3.0 has opened new avenues for meaningful engagement," he said. Dean Alumni and International Affairs Prof. M.A. Shah said the reunion successfully reconnected alumni with their departments, faculty members and fellow graduates while inspiring students through interactions with accomplished professionals and administrators. "Several alumni have expressed their willingness to support the institute in internships, placements, entrepreneurship, innovation, research collaborations and student mentoring. Such partnerships will significantly benefit both the institution and its students," he said. Speaking on the occasion, G.N. Var lauded NIT Srinagar for nurturing a strong alumni culture and creating a platform that promotes knowledge-sharing, collaboration and institutional development. During the Gulmarg session, alumni shared memories of their student life at REC/NIT Srinagar and appreciated the institute's transformation in academics, infrastructure, research and innovation over the years. Several participants emphasized the need for sustained collaboration between the institute and its graduates to strengthen academic excellence, industry linkages and global outreach initiatives. The organising team included Alumni Association office-bearers: Vice President Er. Sayed Parvez Qalandar, General Secretary Er. Irfan Bashir Ashai, Secretary, Dr. Fayaz Ahmad Sofi, Additional Secretaries, Er. Muzaffar Ahmad Beigh, Er. Irfan Shafi Parray and Er. Farhan Manzoor, Joint Secretaries Dr. Sajad Hussain Din, Er. Toyiba, Dr. Mohd Hanief Dar, and Treasurer Dr. Sajad Ahmad Mir. The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Associate Dean Alumni and International Affairs Dr. H.S. Pali, who expressed gratitude to the Director, Registrar, Dean Alumni and International Affairs, distinguished alumni, faculty members, coordinators, volunteers, student teams and participants for contributing to the success of SANGAM-3.0. Dr. Pali also acknowledged the efforts of Dr. Vijay Kumar, Dr. Dinesh Rajendran, Dr. Iqra, Dr. Sumaria Jan, Anchor Sana Showkat, the technical and photography teams, volunteers, supporting staff, and members of the Alumni Association for their dedication throughout the three-day event.
New Delhi, May 12: A massive protest organised by the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) broke out near the Shastri Bhawan on Tuesday, against the alleged paper leak in NEET-UG this year. The exam was held on May 3, following which allegations of paper leak surfaced, triggering investigations by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) and central agencies. Earlier, the National Testing Agency (NTA) announced the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026, and said the examination will be re-conducted on dates to be notified separately. In a statement, the NTA said the decision was taken with the approval of the Government of India in the interest of maintaining transparency and preserving trust in the national examination system.
Srinagar, Feb 12: Jammu and Kashmir recorded over 15.48 lakh traffic violation cases in 2025, with authorities collecting more than Rs 34.17 crore as penalty under the Motor Vehicles Act, the Centre informed Parliament on Thursday. The information was shared in the Lok Sabha in response to a question raised by MP Janardan Singh Sigriwal. According to the official data, 15,48,525 challans were issued across the Union Territory in 2025, while the penalty amount recovered stood at Rs 34,17,36,740. The figures further show that in 2024, a total of 15,44,105 violations were registered with a penalty collection of around Rs 43.40 crore, while in 2023, 12,38,584 challans were issued and Rs 34.56 crore was collected. For the current year, till February 8, 2026, Jammu and Kashmir has recorded 1,63,531 traffic violation cases, with revenue collection of about Rs 2.11 crore. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways stated that stricter penalties under the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 are aimed at ensuring better compliance and deterrence. It also said that traffic enforcement falls under the jurisdiction of States and Union Territories. The government has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for electronic monitoring and is promoting technology-driven enforcement through Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras integrated with the VAHAN database. Awareness campaigns under the Sadak Suraksha Abhiyan are also being carried out to improve road safety.
New Delhi, Jan 25: The Dental Council of India (DCI) has directed all universities and dental colleges across the country to strictly ensure a minimum of 80 percent biometric attendance for Post Graduate students before allowing them to appear in examinations. The decision has been taken to curb absenteeism among postgraduate dental students. According to a circular issued by the Dental Council of India-a statutory body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, the decision has been taken after multiple complaints were received from dental colleges in Rajasthan, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh regarding non-attendance of PG students. "The matter was examined by the Grievance Sub-Committee of the DCI in its meeting held on November 24, 2025," the circular reads. It reads that after detailed discussion and deliberation, the committee recommended that all universities and dental colleges must ensure compliance with Regulation 18(a)(i) of the DCI Master of Dental Surgery Course Regulations, 2017, which mandates at least 80 per cent attendance. "The recommendation of the Grievance Sub-Committee has been approved by the Executive Committee of the Dental Council of India through circulation and has now been formally communicated for information and necessary action," the circular reads. As per the circular, all the universities and dental colleges have been directed to ensure minimum 80 per cent biometric attendance of all PG students before permitting them to appear in examinations. The order, issued by Deputy Secretary Dental Council of India Mukesh Kumar, is expected to be implemented with immediate effect across the country.
Srinagar, March 6: Around 17 candidates from Jammu and Kashmir have qualified the Civil Services Examination (CSE)-2025, the result for which was declared by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on Friday. The commission recommended a total of 958 candidates for appointment to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), Indian Police Service (IPS) and various central services. Anuj Agnihotri, an MBBS graduate, has topped the civil services examination 2025, while Rajeshwari Suve M and Akansh Dhull have got the second and third ranks respectively. According to the official list released by the UPSC the 17 candidates from J&K who have figured in the final merit list include Suvan Sharma (Rank 148), Sugandha Gupta (207), Towseef Ganie (Rank 254), Ritika (Rank 456), Sooyash Shivam (Rank 572), Muneeb Parrah (Rank 581), Ghulam Din (Rank 683), Dwarka Gaadhi (Rank 721), Akash (Rank 747), Koh E Safa (Rank 763), Yasaar (Rank 811), Abhishek (Rank 820), Pankaj (Rank 856), Mohammad Ajaz (Rank 869), Azhar (Rank 886), Sarfraz (Rank 936), and Irfan (Rank 957). The results were declared after conducting the written examination in August 2025 followed by the personality tests (interviews) conducted between December 2025 and February 2026. As per the result notification issue by the UPSC, a total of 958 candidates have been recommended for appointment against 1087 vacancies reported by the government for the examination cycle. These include 180 vacancies in the IAS, 55 in the IFS, 150 in the IPS, 507 in Central Services Group A and 195 in Group B services. Of the total recommended candidates, 317 are from the general category, 104 from the economically weaker sections, 306 from other backward classes, 158 from scheduled castes and 73 from scheduled tribes. A consolidated reserve list of 258 candidates has also been published in accordance with the rules. The claims of recommended candidates regarding reservation categories will be subject to verification by the concerned authorities. The UPSC has stated that the candidature of 348 recommended candidates has been kept provisional, while the result of the two candidates has been kept withheld. The CSE is conducted annually in three stages- preliminary, Mains and interview by the UPSC to select officers of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and Indian Police Service (IPS) among others. The civil services (preliminary) examination 2025 was conducted on May 25 of 2025. A total of 937876 candidates applied for this examination, out of which 5,76,793 actually appeared in the test. A total of 14,161 candidates qualified for appearance in the written (Main) examination which was held in August, 2025. Of these, 2736 candidates had qualified for the personality test (interview) of the examination. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the candidates who qualified the UPSC exam. "Congratulations to all those who have successfully cleared the Civil Services Examination, 2025. Their dedication, perseverance and hard work have led to this significant milestone. Wishing them the very best as they embark on a journey of serving the nation and fulfilling the aspirations of the people," PM Modi wrote on his official X handle. "To those who may not have secured the desired outcome in the Civil Services Examination, I understand that such moments can be difficult. However, this is only one step in a larger journey. Many opportunities lie ahead, both in future examinations and in the many avenues through which you can contribute to our nation. My best wishes for the road ahead," his post on X reads. UPSC chairman Ajay Kumar announced the declaration of the result and congratulated the candidates who qualified the exam. "Congrats to all successful candidates as you begin a career of service to the nation. For those who did not make it-the learning from this journey will guide you in the paths ahead," UPSC Chairman wrote in a post on X. Among the 17 candidates from J&K who qualified UPSC exam inlcude a visually impaired candidate Irfan Ahmad Lone, a resident of Manzpora in the Naidkhai area of Bandipora.
Srinagar, Jan 8: Contractual faculty members working in government degree colleges of Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Department (HED) have expressed strong resentment over what they term as a glaring disparity in salaries, demanding revision of their pay in line with University Grants Commission (UGC) norms and regularisation of their services. The faculty, many of whom hold PhDs and are qualified through NET, SET and JRF, said they have been denied UGC-recommended pay scales despite discharging academic responsibilities equivalent to their regular counterparts. “Hundreds of highly qualified scholars have been pushed into silent suffering. For years, we have been assured that our pay revision is under consideration, but nothing has materialised so far,” said Dr Ishfaq Gowhar, a contractual faculty member. Earlier, Director Colleges J&K had acknowledged the legitimacy of the faculty’s demand, stating that while the issue was genuine, its implementation involved significant financial implications due to the large number of contractual appointments. “We are aware that they deserve salary enhancement, but the number of contractual faculty is huge and it has financial implications,” he earlier said. Dr Gowhar pointed out that contractual lecturers, who form the backbone of the higher education system, continue to work on a fixed monthly honorarium of Rs 28,000, which has remained unchanged for nearly a decade. “The irony is that a Class IV employee with a Class 10 qualification draws a salary exceeding Rs 50,000, while doctorate-holding teachers engaged in teaching, mentoring and academic research are paid a fraction of that,” he said. He added that institutions such as SKUAST-K, University of Kashmir and Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) have implemented revised UGC pay scales, but the Higher Education Department has failed to extend similar treatment to its contractual faculty. Dr Gowhar said the demand for “equal work, equal pay” gets prominently featured in election campaigns, raising hopes among contractual teachers. “Promises were made and slogans echoed during elections, but once the process ended, our voices were reduced to silence. Even meeting officials now feels impossible,” he said. He said contractual faculty were not seeking privileges but dignity, fairness and recognition for their service. The faculty appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the Education Minister to intervene and take concrete steps towards addressing their long-pending demands. “This issue is not merely about salaries. It is about survival, justice and dignity in the classrooms of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
